San Bernardino, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- Development Code Ch. 19.20 §15
- Residential exterior
- 65 dBA
- Residential interior
- 45 dBA
- Property-line rule
- Not discernible past parcel
- Nuisance code
- Municipal Code Ch. 8.54
Summary
The City of San Bernardino sets its own noise standard in Development Code Chapter 19.20: mechanical equipment must not be discernible beyond the parcel boundary, and exterior noise in residential areas cannot exceed 65 dBA, with interior noise capped at 45 dBA.
No loudspeaker, bells, gongs, buzzers, mechanical equipment or other sounds ... associated with any use shall be discernible beyond any boundary line of the parcel, except fire protection devices, burglar alarms and church bells. ... In residential areas, no exterior noise level shall exceed 65dBA and no interior noise level shall exceed 45dBA.
Full Breakdown
San Bernardino applies its own Development Code standard, not the County's. Chapter 19.20, Section 15, states no mechanical equipment or other sound associated with a use shall be discernible beyond any boundary line of the parcel. In residential areas, exterior noise cannot exceed 65 dBA and interior noise cannot exceed 45 dBA. Chapter 19.08.030 makes these Chapter 19.20 standards binding on industrial development. A data center's cooling towers, chillers, and backup generators must meet the 65 dBA residential exterior limit at the nearest home and stay inaudible past the property line. Municipal Code Chapter 8.54 adds nuisance-based noise controls and hours.
Violations & Fines
Noise discernible past the parcel line or exceeding the 65 dBA residential exterior limit violates Development Code Chapter 19.20 and Municipal Code Chapter 8.54, enforced by Code Enforcement through citations and permit conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a data center be in San Bernardino?
Does San Bernardino use the same noise limits as the County?
Can residents ask San Bernardino for tighter data-center noise rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino
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Data Center Noise Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle data center noise limits.